FUEL COSTS FOR AGRICULTURE

Early day motion 250, tabled 1 December 2004 by Michael Weir (Scottish National Party). Signed by 17 members.

That this House notes that the figures from the National Statistics Office show that red diesel prices have risen from just under 23 pence per litre to nearly 30 per litre over the last year, an increase of nearly 30 per cent.; further notes that the Home Grown Cereals Authority survey highlighted an increase in haulage costs in the last year to agriculture of 6.5 per cent. per average journey; believes that such cost increases are seriously detrimental to a vital rural industry; and calls upon the Chancellor to examine ways by which relief can be provided to this important industry.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 6, Scottish National Party 4, DUP 2, Labour 2, Plaid Cymru 2, Independent 1.